Wireless remote detector systems and methods

ABSTRACT

A system for an embodiment includes a sensor device having at least one sensor adapted to monitor at least one parameter associated with a circuit and selectively provide measurement information on the at least one parameter. The at least one sensor may include an electrical sensor adapted to monitor an electrical parameter of the circuit for the sensor device to selectively provide as the measurement information, and wherein the sensor device includes a wireless transceiver within the sensor device and is adapted to transmit the measurement information and receive control information. The system may further include a receiver indicator device having a wireless transceiver and adapted to wirelessly receive the measurement information from the sensor device, provide the control information to the sensor device, and provide an indication based on the measurement information to a user operating the receiver indicator device.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 12/184,874, filed Aug. 1, 2008, which claims priority to andthe benefit of U.S. provisional patent application No. 60/953,726, filedon Aug. 3, 2007, entitled “Two Part Wireless Remote Non-Contact DetectorSystem that Detects Voltage, Light, Sound, Heat, Motion and Continuity,”and claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. provisional patentapplication No. 60/957,718, filed on Aug. 24, 2007, entitled “Two PartWireless Remote Non-Contact Voltage Detector System that also DetectsLight, Sound, Heat, Motion and Continuity,” with all three of thesepatent applications hereby expressly incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to electronics and moreparticularly, for example, to methods and systems for determining whichof a plurality of different circuit breakers are associated with aparticular line.

BACKGROUND

Circuit breakers for use in electrical circuits are well known. Circuitbreakers trip automatically to disable a circuit in response to anoverload or short circuit. In this manner, circuit breakers tend toprevent damage to electrical devices, fires, and harm to people.

Tripped circuit breakers can be reset. A circuit breaker is typicallymanually reset once the condition that caused the circuit breaker totrip no longer exists. Thus, after an overload has ceased or after ashort circuit has been repaired, the circuit breaker can be reset.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Methods and systems are disclosed herein that are directed to varioustypes of measurement devices and to techniques to facilitate theassociation of circuit breakers with circuits, in accordance with one ormore embodiments. For example, such methods and systems may be used toidentify, which one of a plurality of different circuit breakers providepower to a particular, remotely located, alternating current (AC) line.As a specific example, the particular circuit breaker that is associatedwith a circuit that provides power to lights and wall outlets in oneroom of a home or office may be determined. The circuit breaker can belocated in a circuit breaker panel that is outside of the home or officeor that is remote with respect to the room within which the circuit islocated.

In accordance with an example of an embodiment, a system for associatinga circuit breaker with a circuit can comprise at least one sensor fordetermining if a circuit is active. The sensor can be either a contactsensor or a non-contact sensor.

A wireless transmitter can be in communication with the sensor(s) suchthat the wireless transmitter transmits a signal when an active circuitis sensed. A wireless receiver can be in communication with thetransmitter and can alert a user when an active circuit is found or whena previously active circuit becomes inactive.

In accordance with an example of an embodiment, a system for associatinga circuit breaker with a circuit can comprise means for sensing avoltage in a circuit. Means for transmitting a wireless signal canoperate in response to sensing the voltage. Means for receiving thetransmitted signal can provide an alert to the user when such a signalis received.

In accordance with an example of an embodiment, a method for associatinga circuit breaker with a circuit can comprise sensing a voltage in acircuit or sensing ambient light within a room. When such a voltage orlight is sensed, a wireless signal can be transmitted. When such awireless signal is received, the user can be alerted to the presence ofthe voltage.

In this manner, there is no need to repeatedly turn off circuitbreakers, go to the room in which the circuit is being monitored, andcheck to see if the circuit is active, as is done according tocontemporary practice.

In accordance with an embodiment, a system includes a sensor devicehaving at least one sensor adapted to monitor at least one parameterassociated with a circuit and selectively provide measurementinformation on the at least one parameter; wherein the at least onesensor includes an electrical sensor adapted to monitor an electricalparameter of the circuit for the sensor device to selectively provide asthe measurement information; wherein the sensor device includes awireless transceiver within the sensor device and is adapted to transmitthe measurement information and receive control information. The systemmay further include a receiver indicator device having a wirelesstransceiver and adapted to wirelessly receive the measurementinformation from the sensor device, provide the control information tothe sensor device, and provide an indication based on the measurementinformation to a user operating the receiver indicator device.

In accordance with an embodiment, a method includes positioning a sensordevice having at least one sensor adapted to provide measurementinformation on whether a circuit is active, wherein the at least onesensor includes an electrical sensor adapted to monitor an electricalparameter of the circuit for the sensor device to selectively provide asthe measurement information; and a non-contact external probe adapted tomonitor at least one parameter associated with the circuit for thesensor device to selectively provide as the measurement information. Themethod may further include selecting whether to provide measurementinformation from the electrical sensor or the non-contact externalprobe; wirelessly transmitting the measurement information from thesensor device to a remote location; and positioning a receiver indicatordevice at the remote location to receive the measurement information,wherein the receiver indicator device provides an indication to a useron whether the circuit is active based on the measurement information.

In accordance with an embodiment, a sensor/transmitter device includes aprocessor; an electrical sensor, coupled to the processor, adapted tomonitor a state of an electrical parameter of a circuit and provide anelectrical parameter signal to the processor; an external probe, coupledto and/or adapted to couple to the sensor/transmitter device, adapted tomonitor one or more parameters associated with the circuit and providean external probe signal to the processor; and a wireless transmitter,coupled to the processor, adapted to transmit measurement informationprovided by the processor based on the electrical parameter signaland/or the external probe signal.

Embodiments of the present invention will be more fully understood inconjunction with the following detailed description taken together withthe following drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a sensor/transmitter, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a receiver/indicator, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the sensor/transmitter, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 3B is a front view of the sensor/transmitter, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 3C is a right side view of the sensor/transmitter, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 3D is a left side view of the sensor/transmitter, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 3E is a top view of the sensor/transmitter, according to an exampleof an embodiment;

FIG. 3F is a bottom view of the sensor/transmitter, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the receiver/indicator, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 4B is a front view of the receiver/indicator, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 4C is a right side view of the receiver/indicator, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 4D is a left side view of the receiver/indicator, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 4E is a top view of the receiver/indicator, according to an exampleof an embodiment;

FIG. 4F is a bottom view of the receiver/indicator, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an external non-contact probe,according to an example of an embodiment;

FIG. 5B is a side view of an external non-contact probe, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 5C is a front end view of an external non-contact probe, accordingto an example of an embodiment;

FIG. 5D is a back end view of an external non-contact probe, accordingto an example of an embodiment;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a sensor/transmitter, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a receiver/indicator, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 7A is a top view of a sensor/transmitter, according to an exampleof an embodiment;

FIG. 7B is a side view of a sensor/transmitter, according to an exampleof an embodiment;

FIG. 7C is a front view of a sensor/transmitter, according to an exampleof an embodiment;

FIG. 8A is a front view of a receiver/indicator, according to an exampleof an embodiment;

FIG. 8B is a top view of a receiver/indicator, according to an exampleof an embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a probe, according to an example of anembodiment;

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the operation of a sensor/transmitter(TU) and a receiver/indicator (RU) using voltage sensing, according toan example of an embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the operation of a sensor/transmitter(TU) and a receiver/indicator (RU) using light sensing, according to anexample of an embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing the use of a sensor/transmitter and areceiver/indicator, according to an example of an embodiment; and

FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing the use of a sensor/transmitter and areceiver/indicator, according to an example of an embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention and their advantages are bestunderstood by referring to the detailed description that follows. Itshould be appreciated that like reference numerals are used to identifylike elements illustrated in one or more of the figures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As an example, there are frequently situations wherein an existingalternating current (AC) line is to be used for adding an outlet, lightfixture, or other electrical device. Often, such devices need to beinstalled from the mid-run section of the AC line. This can be at aconsiderable distance from the breaker panel or AC line terminationpoint. Thus, determining which breaker is associated with the particularcircuit or AC line can be difficult.

The AC line is cut and a junction box is installed to provide a splicethat supplies power to the new device being installed. In order for thework to be completed, power must be turned off to the particular circuitand not to the entire facility or building. Often the breaker panel ortermination point is not labeled. Even if the circuit breakers arelabeled, it can still be difficult to identify the circuit breaker or ACline which powers the line that is to be used for re-work. The labelscan be cryptic or ambiguous.

It is necessary to identify the proper AC line prior to cutting into it.This is important so as to avoid unnecessarily damaging another AC line.According to contemporary practice, considerable time can be spenttracing the AC line to the nearest receptacle. Once this is done, avoltmeter or light is plugged into the AC receptacle to identify theparticular breaker that feeds this circuit. Even then, wiring from thereceptacle to accessible areas of AC lines is difficult to trace.

For example, in order to identify the breaker that powers the particularlight fixture according to contemporary methodology, groups of breakersare turned off, followed by a trip to the remote work area to checkwhether the lights are off. This trial and error method may requiregoing back and fourth many times until the breaker is identified.

As a further example, an electrician can open one or more groups ofbreakers in the basement of a building. The electrician may then have togo to a remote area, such as the attic. In the remote area, theelectrician connects a volt meter to the AC. line. The volt meter may beconnected to an outlet, a light socket, or the line itself.

Using this trial and error method the electrician may have to go backand fourth from the basement to the attic several times. Each time theelectrician opens different breakers until the breaker for the AC linebeing worked on is identified, i.e., is associated with the breaker.

As another example, similar issues exist when attempting to identify azone valve for a hot-water heating system according to contemporarypractice. Typically, a user will close one valve, wait for the isolatedpipe to cool, and then walk around the premises and physically touch apipe in each zone to see if the proper zone has been isolated.

In accordance with one or more embodiments, methods and systems forassociating a circuit breaker with a circuit are disclosed. Such methodsand systems can substantially mitigate the amount of effort that isrequired to determine which circuit breaker is associated with aparticular circuit, such as in a home or office. Such methods cansimilarly be used to identify a circuit breaker for an electrical line,a zone valve for a hot-water heating system, or for other similar typesof applications.

In accordance with an example of an embodiment, a system for associatinga circuit breaker with a circuit can have one or more sensors forremotely sensing that a circuit is active. When a sensor senses that acircuit is active, a transmitter can transmit a signal to a receiverthat alerts a user. In this manner, the user can determine which of aplurality of different circuit breakers is associated with a particularcircuit. This system mitigates the contemporary need to repeatedly turnoff circuit breakers, go to the room in which the circuit is beingmonitored, and check to see if the circuit is active.

More particularly, a system for associating a circuit breaker with acircuit can comprise at least one sensor that is configured to sense thepresence and/or absence of a parameter that is indicative of a circuitbeing active. For example, a sensor can sense the presence of a voltageor current in the circuit.

A sensor or group of sensors can sense one or more effects of current orvoltage in a circuit. For example, one sensor can sense the presence orlevel of light in a room, another sensor can sense the presence of aheat source in the room, and another sensor can sense the presence orlevel of sound in a room. A change in the presence or level of aparameter can be an indication that the state of a circuit breaker forthat room has changed.

Examples of sensors include voltage sensors, current sensors, continuitysensors, heat sensors (such as infrared or thermal sensors), lightsensors, sound sensors, and/or motion sensors. More than one sensor canbe used. Any desired combination of sensors can be used.

The sensors can comprise contact sensors or non-contact sensors. Anexample of a contact sensor is a voltage sensor where the sensor is inelectrical contact with the AC line. An example of a non-contact sensoris a light sensor that senses ambient light within a room.

Another example of a non-contact sensor can be a voltage sensor thatplugs into a wall outlet, but is not in electrical contact with the ACline. For example, plastic prongs or plastic covered prongs can beinserted into the wall outlet without providing such electrical contact.An induction sensor, for example, can be used to sense the presence of avoltage at the wall outlet.

Any desired combination of contact sensors and non-contact sensors canbe used. For example, a contact voltage sensor such as a plug-in voltagesensor can be used with a non-contact, clamp on current sensor, a lightsensor, a heat sensor, a sound sensor, and/or a motion sensor. Anyparameter that indicates the presence or potential presence of voltageon an AC line or circuit can be used.

Thus, the system can detect the presence of voltage on an AC line orcircuit by using contact or non-contact voltage detection, by usingnon-contact current detection, by using sound detection, by using heatdetection, by using motion detection, by using light detection, by usingcontinuity detection, or by using any combination thereof.

The sensing of other parameters such as sound, heat, light, sound, andmotion may be used to detect the presence of AC voltage indirectly. Thesensing of such parameters allows the effects of voltage on the AC lineor circuit to be monitored. These effects are generally indicative ofthe presence of voltage on the AC line or circuit. For example, soundcan be sensed from a motor, such as the motor of a fan. Heat can besensed from a light, a heater, or a computer. Light can be sensed from alight or computer monitor. Motion can be sensed from a fan.

A wireless transmitter can be in communication with the sensor orsensors. Thus, the wireless transmitter can receive a signal from thesensor(s). The sensor or sensors can be packaged either with orseparately with respect to the wireless transmitter. One or more sensorscan be packaged with the wireless transmitter and one or more sensorscan be packaged separately with respect to the wireless transmitter.

The wireless transmitter can comprise a radio frequency wirelesstransmitter. For example, the wireless transmitter can comprise acellular telephone transmitter, a Bluetooth® transmitter, a WiFi®transmitter, and/or a WiMAX® transmitter. The wireless transmitter cancomprise any desired type of transmitter and/or transmission standard(such as a wireless interface standard or protocol).

A wireless receiver can receive a signal from the wireless transmitter.The signal can indicate a change in the state of one or more parameters.The change of state of parameter or parameters can indicate that thestate of the circuit has changed.

For example, opening a circuit breaker can cause the voltage provided bya wall outlet to drop to zero and/or can cause the lights in a room togo out. These changes of state in parameters, i.e., voltage and light,can cause the wireless transmitter to send a signal to the wirelessreceiver.

The signal received by the wireless receiver can cause an indicator tochange state. For example, in response to the signal, a light or anaudible indicator can change state from on to off, or visa-versa. Inthis manner, the user is alerted that changing the state of a circuitbreaker has caused a change of state of a particular circuit. Thus, thecircuit breaker for which the state was changed is associated with thecircuit for which the state was changed.

The sensor/transmitter can comprise an ambient light sensor that sensesthe level of light prior to changing the state of a circuit breaker suchthat changes in ambient lighting are more readily determined. Theambient light sensor can be used to monitor the state of a lamp, forexample.

In accordance with an example of an embodiment, various features can beprovided in a hand held device (a receiver/indicator) for localreadings, and a device for remote operation (a sensor/transmitter). Thereceiver/indicator and the sensor/transmitter can communicate, eitherunidirectionally (where the sensor/transmitter transmits to thereceiver/indicator) or bidirectionally (where the sensor/transmitter andthe receiver/indicator each transmit to one another such as via the useof transceiver), such as by using radio frequency (RF) wirelesstechnology. Bidirectional communication can facilitate the changing ofparameters or settings of the sensor/transmitter from thereceiver/indicator. For example, the sensor/transmitter can be changedfrom a voltage sensing mode to a light sensing mode by remote control(such as by a control of the receiver/indicator).

Such features can include a wireless remote mid-run non-contact AC linevoltage detector, a wireless remote non-contact AC power receptaclevoltage detector, a wireless remote light detector, a wireless remotethermal detector, a hand held non-contact voltage (NCV) detector, and/ora wireless remote breaker finder.

In accordance with an example of an embodiment, an RF transceiver can beused to remotely detect voltage, light or temperature. Non-contactvoltage sensing can be used to detect voltage in mid-run AC wiring orpower receptacles. Light from any light source can be detected whileheat in piping used in home heating systems can also be detected.

In accordance with an example of an embodiment, a hand held non-contactvoltage (NCV) detector can be provided. The non-contact voltage detectorcan be used to locate and/or identify existing wiring, circuit breakerswhich feed power to AC lines, AC outlets and light fixtures.

In accordance with an example of an embodiment, heat in piping used inhome heating systems can also be detected. Such heat can be used toidentify heating system piping for checking heating zone functionalityand/or identify the zone valve which controls a particular heating zone.

In accordance with an example of an embodiment, an AC power line can beidentified, e.g., associated with a circuit breaker, in mid-run withoutcutting the wire. Circuit identification can be accomplished for mid-runAC power circuits, junction boxes, receptacles or light fixtureconnections.

An electrician can connect the sensor/transmitter to a live AC line inmid-run. The electrician can then look to check to verify that voltageis present. Then the electrician can go (such as with thereceiver/indicator in hand) to the breaker panel or the AC junctionpoint. Signals from the sensor/transmitter are picked up by thereceiver/indicator.

If voltage is present, an RF signal comprising a voltage present codecan be generated and transmitted from the sensor/transmitter to thereceiver/indicator. The electrician can then switch circuit breakers onand off or disconnect and re-connect the AC lines one at a time untilthe tone stops and voltage present LED turns off, thereby identifyingwhich breaker or the AC line at the breaker panel feeds that particularmid-run AC power line.

A similar process can be used for locating the breaker that powerslight. Similarly, this can be used for identifying and checkingoperation of heating zone valves. All sensing methods which includemid-run AC line, AC receptacle voltage detection, light and heat usethis proprietary circuit design.

Circuit breakers associated with an AC power line, such as an AC powerline that provides power to lighting fixtures, can readily beidentified. This is particularly useful in those instances wherein thelighting fixtures are a considerable distance from the breaker panel,such as in a different area of the building. A light sensing circuit canbe used to detect whether a light is switched on or off. A heat sensorcan be used to identify zone valves, such as by determining whether ornot hot water is flowing through a pipe.

According to an example of an embodiment, a device can be used to detectvoltage (such as without contacting the conductor), to detect light, andto sense heat. The device can send an indication of the on or off stateof the circuit or heating zone wirelessly to another device, such as byusing an RF transmitter or transceiver.

The device can sense AC voltage in a wire feeding a particular ACcircuit, and/or can sense light from a light fixture that is in aparticular AC circuit. The device can sense light from a light source inany room of a house or commercial building.

According to an example of an embodiment, a system comprises a two partdevice. One part can comprise a commercial RF transmitter and the otherpart can comprise a commercial RF receiver. One part can be asensor/transmitter and the other part can be a receiver/indicator. Whenvoltage or light is sensed, by the sensor/transmitter an indication iswirelessly transmitted back to a second device (receiver/indicator) heldby the user located at the breaker panel or remote location.

To identify a breaker of a particular AC line, such as an AC line thatrequires re-work, the user can, for example, attach thesensor/transmitter to this AC line. Such attachment can be performedusing a built in cable holder.

Alternatively, such attachment can be performed by plugging thesensor/transmitter into a wall outlet. An external plug can have plasticspades such that the plug does not make electrical contact with thereceptacle contacts. When the sensor/transmitter is turned on, a sensemode can be selected, either manually or automatically. Thesensor/transmitter can detect the presence of AC voltage on this lineand/or receptacle, such as by using non-contact voltage sensing. Thesensor/transmitter can detect the presence of light in the room. Thepresence of light can be detected instead of or in addition to detectionof voltage. The presence of voltage and/or light can be indicated on thesensor/transmitter by the lighting of an LED and/or the sounding of anaudible indicator, for example.

The sensor/transmitter can begin wirelessly transmitting an indicationof the sense state. Thus, the sensor/transmitter can transmit a signalthat indicates whether AC voltage has been sensed and/or whether lighthas been sensed. The presence of AC voltage and/or light can be anindication that a particular AC line or circuit is active. Otherparameters, such as heat, current, and/or sound can similarly be sensedinstead of or in addition to AC voltage and/or light.

The user can leave the room where the sensor/transmitter is operatingand can move to the breaker panel, junction point, or to any otherdesired location so as to identify the breaker or AC line that isassociated with the AC being monitored by the sensor/transmitter.

The user can turn on the hand held receiver/indicator. Thereceiver/indicator can receive the signal from the sensor/transmitter.The receiver/indicator can acknowledge reception of the signal to theuser. For example, the receiver/indicator can indicate reception to theuser by lighting a green LED. A red LED can illuminate and/or an audibleindicator can sound to indicate that AC voltage has been sensed by thesensor/transmitter. As discussed herein, the AC voltage can be senseddirectly, such as by either contact or non-contact voltage detection, bynon-contact current detection, by contact continuity detection, by sounddetection, by heat detection, by motion detection, or by any combinationthereof.

After seeing the LED illuminate or hearing the beeping sound (whichindicates the presence of voltage on the AC line or circuit at theremote location) on the receiver/indicator, the user can sequentiallyswitch the circuit breakers off and on or disconnect the AC wires at thejunction point in order to identify the breaker or wire which powers theAC line or circuit at the remote location.

When the particular circuit breaker that powers the AC line is turnedoff, then the state of the indicator on the receiver/indicator changes,indicating that the breaker or wire for the AC circuit at the remotelocation has been identified. Thus, the LED on the receiver/indicatorturns off and/or the audible indicator turns off. Alternatively, the LEDon the receiver/indicator can be off and/or the audible indicator can beoff when AC voltage is present at the remote location and can turn onwhen the AC voltage is removed.

Once the circuit breaker has been opened and/or AC line has beendisconnected, then the desired work can be performed at the remotelocation. The circuit breaker can be closed and/or AC line can bere-connected, after the desired work has been completed.

For heating valve location, rather than a voltage sensor or lightsensor, a heat sensor can be used. Thus, a potential source of power orheat to the heating valve or pipe can be removed in an analogous fashionto the opening of circuit breakers described above. These potentialsources of power or heat can be heaters (either gas or electric, forexample) or can be fluid, such as hot water. Circuit breakers, switches,and/or valves can be cycled on and off to determine which one affectsthe monitored location. Once the circuit breaker, switch, or valve isidentified, then it can be left off or open until the desired repair iscompleted. Instead of or in addition to a heat sensor, a leak detectorcan be used. For example, a water leak detector or a gas (such asnatural gas) leak detector can be used to monitor a pipe while remotelylocated valves are shut off to determine which valve controls theleaking pipe.

According to an example of an embodiment, a two part system can enableone person, working alone, to remotely monitor the status of varioussensed conditions such as voltage, current, continuity, light, soundmotion and heat. The system can comprise a sensor/transmitter as shownin FIGS. 1 and 3A-3F and a receiver/indicator as shown in FIGS. 2 and4A-4F. The sensor/transmitter can sense a parameter that is indicativeof an AC line being active, e.g., having a voltage thereon, and cantransmit a wireless signal representative of a state of the sensedparameter. The sensor/transmitter can have a built-in non-contactvoltage and/or current sensor as shown in FIGS. 3A-3F. Thesensor/transmitter can have an external non-contact voltage and/orcurrent sensor as shown in FIGS. 5A-5D.

The receiver/indicator can receive a wireless signal that isrepresentative of a sensed parameter and can provide an indication ofthe state of the sensed parameter to a user. The sensor/transmitter andthe receiver/indicator can be remotely located with respect to oneanother. For example, the sensor/transmitter and the receiver/indicatorcan be in different parts of a building.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3F, the sensor/transmitter can be a handhelddevice comprising a built-in, non-contact sensor 301 (FIGS. 3E and 3F)that is configured to detect voltage and/or current without electricallyconnecting to the copper wires of an AC line. Such a voltage sensor canbe a capacitively coupled sensor, for example. Such a current sensor canbe an inductively coupled sensor or can be a Hall effect device, forexample.

The sensor/transmitter can comprise a built-in light sensor 302. Thesensor/transmitter can comprise any type of sensor that provides anindication that an AC line or circuit has voltage applied thereto. Forexample, the sensor/transmitter can comprise a voltage sensor, a currentsensor, a continuity sensor, a heat sensor, a light sensor, a soundsensor, and/or a motion sensor.

The sensor/transmitter can comprise one or more input jacks 303, such asRJ45 receptacles. Each input jack 303 can be used to connect an inputsensor or probes. For example, the input jack 303 can be used to connectan external sensor such as: NCV, Light, Temperature, etc. It also has agreen Power-on LED 322, a sense indication red LED 142, and a 3-positionslide switch 321. This 3-position slide switch is used to selectpower-off, built-in NCV, or light detect functions, for example.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a block diagram of the sensor/transmitter isshown. The sensor/transmitter can comprise a CPU 161. The CPU 161 cancomprise a microprocessor (or other logic circuitry) and the associatedcircuitry necessary to process information from the sensor(s) and totransmit a signal representative of this information to thereceiver/indicator. The CPU 161 can comprise a general purposemicroprocessor, a custom microprocessor, a logic circuit, or anycombination thereof.

The non-contact voltage sensor (NCV) 301 can provide an output to asignal conditioning circuit 101. The non-contact voltage sensor 301 candetect the presence of AC voltage on insulated electrical wires withoutcontacting the metal conductors thereof. The signal conditioning circuit101 can amplify, filter, or otherwise modify or condition the output ofnon-contact voltage sensor 301 according to well-known principles.

Similarly, the light sensor 302 provides an output to a signalconditioning circuit 102. The signal conditioning circuit 102 canamplify, filter, or otherwise modify or condition the output of lightsensor 302 according to well-known principles. The light sensitivityadjustment 304 can be used to compensate for the level of ambientlighting, as discussed herein. Sensitivity adjustment 304 can comprise apotentiometer that is used to set light threshold detection level of theon-board light sensor. The sensitivity level can be set automatically asdiscussed below.

A mode select 171 can select either the non-contact voltage sensor 301or the light sensor 302 or both the non-contact voltage sensor 301 andthe light sensor 302 to monitor. The mode select 171 can be responsiveto a manual control of the sensor/transmitter, such as the slide switch321 (FIG. 3A) thereof.

An external probe 500 (see also FIGS. 5A-5D) can be connected to thesensor/transmitter, such as via RJ-45 connector 303 (FIG. 3F). Theexternal probe 500 can comprise a sensor 150, such as a non-contactvoltage sensor, and a signal conditional circuit 151. The signalconditioning circuit 151 can amplify, filter, or otherwise modify orcondition the output of non-contact voltage sensor 150 (e.g., sensor301) according to well-known principles. An external probe LED 145 canilluminate to indicate the presence of and/or proper functioning of anexternal probe, such as that shown in FIGS. 5A-5D.

A power button 139 can be used to turn the sensor/transmitter on andoff. A power on red LED 141 can illuminate to indicate that thesensor/transmitter is turned on.

Transceiver module 169 can facilitate communication with thereceiver/indicator. The transmitter module 169 can facilitatebi-directional communication with the receiver/indicator. Alternatively,a transmitter can be used instead of a transceiver. Of course, atransmitter will only facilitate unidirectional communication from thesensor/transmitter to the receiver/indicator.

A sense indication red LED 142 and/or a sense buzzer 143 can provide anindication of a change of state of the parameter being monitored by thesensor/transmitter. For example, the sense indication red LED 142 canilluminate and/or the sense buzzer 143 can sound in response to thesensor/transmitter detecting a voltage on the AC line and/or detectingambient light above a predetermined level at the remote location.

Referring now to FIGS. 5A-5D, the external probe can comprise a clamp511, handles 512 and a hinge 513. The clamp 511 and handles 512 can beconfigured in the general fashion of the clamp and handles of theconnectors of common automobile jumper cables. Thus, the clamp 511 canbe applied to an AC line 501 by squeezing the handles 512 in a mannersimilar to the attachment of a battery jumper cable to a car batteryterminal.

The clamp 511 can comprise a non-contact voltage sensor 150. Thenon-contact voltage sensor 150 is configured to sense the presence of avoltage on the AC line, thus indicating that the AC line is active andmust be turned off prior to performing work thereon.

The external probe 500 can be attached to the sensor/transmitter by acable 514, such as an 18 inch to 24 inch cable that plugs into the RJ-45connector of the sensor/transmitter. Alternatively, the external probe500 can communicate with the sensor/transmitter wirelessly, such as inthe same manner in which the sensor/transmitter communicates with thereceiver/indicator. As a further alternative, the external probe 500 cancommunicate directly (without the use of a sensor/transmitter) with thereceiver/indicator.

The external probe 500 can be configured to detect one or moreparameters such as voltage, current, continuity (contact closure), heat,light, sound, and motion.

The external probe 500 can comprise the same or similar non-contactvoltage sensing circuitry as the sensor/transmitter. When the externalprobe 500 is plugged into the RJ45 jack 303 of the sensor/transmitter,then the internal non-contact voltage sensing circuit of thesensor/transmitter can be disconnected and the remote NCV circuit can beconnected to the microprocessor 161 of the sensor/transmitter. Thus, thefunction of the sensor/transmitter can be generally the same regardlessof whether sensing is performed locally (buy a built-in sensor of thesensor/transmitter) or remotely (by an external probe).

The sensor/transmitter can provide a wireless output that is received bythe receiver/indicator (FIGS. 2 and 4A-4F). The output can comprise asignal that is transmitted when the on board non-contact voltage orlight sensor has detected voltage or light above the threshold level.

The sensor/transmitter can comprise one or more indicator lights. Forexample, the sensor/transmitter can comprise a power on indicator 141that illuminates to indicate that the sensor/transmitter is turned on.For example, the sensor/transmitter can have a slide switch 321 forturning the sensor/transmitter on. The slide switch 321 can turn thesensor/transmitter on in a selected one of two different modes. Theslide switch 321 can turn the sensor/transmitter on in a non-contactvoltage mode, where voltage of the AC line is sensed. The slide switch321 can turn the sensor/transmitter on in a light sensing mode, whereinthe ambient light level is sensed. Green arrow LEDs 322 can turn on whenthe slide switch is placed in the non-contact voltage sensing and/orlight position.

The sensor/transmitter can comprise a sensor detection indicator 142that illuminates to indicate that a sensor has made a detection. Forexample, a red LED can illuminate when a voltage is sensed on the ACline or when an increase (or decrease) in ambient light is detected fromthe on-board sensors or from the external probe 500.

The sensor/transmitter can comprise an external sensor activationindicator 145. For example, a round yellow LED can illuminate toindicate that an external sensor is plugged into the RJ45 connector andis functional. When an external sensor is plugged in, the onboardsensors can be disabled.

The sensor/transmitter can comprise a three position slide switch 321 asdiscussed above. The three positions can include OFF, NCV (non-contactvoltage), and Light. In the OFF position, the sensor/transmitter isdisabled (turned off).

When the slide 321 is in the NCV position, the sensor/transmitter can beconfigured to sense the presence of a voltage on the AC line. When theslide 321 is in the NCV position, red LED 142 turns on when a voltage isdetected on the AC line or when the external sensor is activated.

When the slide switch 321 is in the Light position, thesensor/transmitter is configured to sense the presence of ambient light.When the slide switch 321 is in the Light position, the red LED turns onwhen the light above the threshold level is detected or the externalsensor is activated.

As discussed above, an external non-contact voltage, light, or heat(temperature) sensor can be plugged into the sensor/transmitter via theRJ45 connector 303. The sensor/transmitter can be configured to provideautomatic sensor or probe recognition.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the receiver/indicator can comprise a CPU 200.The CPU 200 can comprise a microprocessor (or other type of logiccircuit) and the associate circuitry necessary to process informationfrom the sensor/transmitter and to provide indications representativethereof. The CPU 200 can comprise a general purpose microprocessor, acustom microprocessor, a logic circuit, or any combination thereof.

A power button 201 can allow the receiver/indicator to be turned on andoff. A red power on indicator LED can illuminate to indicate that thepower button 201 has been pushed to turn power on. A green in-range LED203 can illuminate to indicate that the receiver/indicator is receivinga signal from the sensor/transmitter.

Transceiver module 204 facilitates communication with the remotelylocated sensor/transmitter. The transceiver module 204 can facilitatebi-directional communication with the sensor/transmitter. Alternatively,a receiver can be used instead of a transceiver. Of course, a receiverwill only facilitate unidirectional communication from thesensor/transmitter to the receiver/indicator.

A sense indication red LED 206 and/or a sense buzzer 207 can provide anindication of a change of state of the parameter being monitored by thesensor/transmitter. For example, the sense indication red LED 206 canilluminate and/or the sense buzzer 207 can sound in response to thesensor/transmitter detecting a voltage on the AC line and/or detectingambient light above a predetermined level at the remote location.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4F, the receiver/indicator can comprise ahousing 400 that is configured to attach to a user's clothing. Forexample, a clip 401 can be attached to the housing so as to facilitateattachment of the receiver/indicator to a user's belt or pocket. Thereceiver/indicator can be configured to be hand held.

Power switch 201 can comprise a three position slide switch that has anOFF position, an ON position, and a silent position. The silent positioncan disable the sense buzzer 207 for silent operation.

Two green power-on arrows LEDs 202 can provide an indication that thereceiver/indicator is turned on. A sense indication red LED 206 canprovide an indication that a sensed parameter is within a predeterminedrange. For example, sense indication red LED 206 can illuminate toindicate that a voltage is being sensed on an AC line by thesensor/transmitter and/or that ambient light above a threshold level isbeing sensed by the sensor/transmitter.

A yellow in-range LED 203 can illuminate to indicate that thereceiver/indicator is within range of the sensor/transmitter.

Example of Use No. 1

Referring now to FIG. 12, according to a typical application of anexample of an embodiment, non-contact voltage sensing is used toidentify the particular circuit breaker that is associated with aremotely located AC line. This is done by a single person, e.g., withoutthe assistance of a helper.

The sensor/transmitter is used to sense the presence of a voltage of anAC line as the remotely located circuit breakers are cycled between onand off. When the circuit breaker associated with the AC line is opened,then the user is alerted.

More particularly, the following procedure is followed:

1) At the location of the AC line where maintenance or repair is to beperformed, the sensor/transmitter is turned on, as indicated in block801. This can be done by sliding the sensor/transmitter 3-positionswitch to the NCV position. The sensor/transmitter will transmit anin-range signal.

2) The sensor/transmitter is attached to the AC line using the built-incable holder so that the built-in non-contact voltage sensor 301 cansense voltage on the AC line, as indicated in block 802. Alternatively,the external non-contact voltage sensor 500 can be used.

3) If the AC line is powered, i.e., has a voltage present thereon, thenthe sensor/transmitter sensor detector LED will illuminate and thesensor/transmitter will broadcast a sensor detection signal, asindicated in block 803.

4) The receiver/indicator is turned on, as indicated in block 804. Theuser verifies that the yellow in-range and the red sensor detection LEDsare on. This condition indicates that the receiver/indicator is in-rangeand that a sensor detection signal has been received.

5) With receiver/indicator in hand, the user moves to the other end ofthe cables, such as to the breaker panel, as indicated in block 805.

6) At the breaker panel, the user checks to make sure that thereceiver/indicator is still in-range by observing that the yellowin-range LED is on, as indicated in block 806.

7) Once the user has confirmed that the receiver/indicator is stillin-range, the breakers can be opened or the lines can be disconnected,as indicated in block 807. This can be done either one at a time or ingroups, until the sensor detection LED goes off thereby identifying thecable or circuit breaker that is associated with the AC line ofinterest.

Example of Use No. 2

Referring now to FIG. 13, according to another typical application of anexample of an embodiment, light voltage sensing is used to identify theparticular circuit breaker that is associated with a remotely located ACline. Again, this is done by a single person, e.g., without theassistance of a helper.

The sensor/transmitter is used to sense a change in the ambient lightingas the remotely located circuit breakers are cycled between on and off.When the circuit breaker associated with the AC line is opened, then theuser is alerted.

More particularly, the following procedure is followed:

1. Turn sensor/transmitter on by setting the slide switch to the LIGHTposition, as indicated in block 901.

2. The sensor/transmitter is placed under the light source that is to bemonitored, as indicated in block 902.

3. The receiver/indicator is turned on, as indicated in block 903. Theyellow in-range LED and the sense indication red LED are checked toverify that the receiver/indicator is functioning properly. These LEDsindicate that the receiver/indicator is in-range and the sensor detectorsignal is being received.

4. If the sense detection red LED is not on, then the light sensitivitypotentiometer or adjustment 304 is adjusted until the sense indicationred LED illuminates, as indicated in block 904. The light is turned offand the user verifies that the red sense indication goes off. The lightsensitivity adjustment can be adjusted until the red sense indicationLED illuminates when the light source is on and does not illuminate whenthe light source is off. This assures that the sensor/transmitter candifferentiate the light source from ambient background lighting.Alternatively, the sensitivity can be adjusted automatically, asdiscussed below.

5) With receiver/indicator in hand, the user moves to the other end ofthe cables, such as to the breaker panel, as indicated in block 905.

6) At the breaker panel, the user checks to make sure that thereceiver/indicator is still in-range by observing that the yellowin-range LED is on, as indicated in block 906.

7) Once the user has confirmed that the receiver/indicator is stillin-range, the breakers can be opened or the lines can be disconnected,as indicated in block 907. This can be done either one at a time or ingroups, until the sensor detection LED goes off thereby identifying thecable or circuit breaker that is associated with the AC line ofinterest.

The sensitivity of the light sensor 302 can be set or calibrated. Thiscan be done either manually or automatically. For example, light sensorsensitivity adjustment 304 can be used to manually set a threshold suchthat any change in ambient lighting is readily sensed.

On power up, the sensor/transmitter can automatically set or calibratethe sensitivity of the light sensor 302. For example, on power-up, thesensor/transmitter can assume that the ambient light level is in a “noalarm” condition. If the sensor/transmitter is powered on in abrightly-lit room by setting it to light mode, it shall assume lesslight is an alarm condition. Conversely, if the sensor/transmitter ispowered on in a dark room, it can assume more light is an alarm.

To change this operation of the light sensor 302, or to adjust forchanges in background light levels, the following sequence can be used.Press the Calibrate/Channel Switch briefly, e.g., for approximately0.5-1.0 second. If the receiver/indicator is in communication with thesensor/transmitter, the Detect LED can illuminate and a beeper can turnoff.

Upon releasing the switch, the light level seen by the Light Detectorshall become the ‘no alarm’ condition, and the receiver/indicator shallbeep twice to confirm the calibration. The sensor/transmitter shallinhibit detection of alarms for 2-3 seconds after calibration iscomplete, to allow the user to adjust the position of thesensor/transmitter. The Light Meter (e.g., light sensor 302) can becalibrated with the sensor/transmitter's Power/Mode Switch in either theNCV or Light position.

An adjustable light sensor can compensate for variations in ambientlight level. For example, the adjustable light sensor can calibrate thesensor/transmitter upon power on or upon activation of the light sensingcapability of the sensor/transmitter. In this manner, the amount ofambient light prior to changing the state of a circuit breaker isaccounted for. Thus, a reduction or increase in light from this baselevel can indicate a change in the state of a circuit breaker.

As a specific implementation example in accordance with one or moreembodiments, a wireless AC line power detector system is disclosed. TheWireless AC Line Power Detector system (also referred to as the detectorsystem) consists of three (3) parts: 1) a Transmitter Unit (TU) withintegrated clip-on non-contact voltage (NCV) detector and lightdetector; 2) a wireless Receiver Unit (RU); and 3) an optional ExternalProbe with integrated NCV detector as illustrated in FIGS. 6-9 inaccordance with one or more embodiments.

The Transmitter Unit is shown in FIGS. 7 a-7 c and has the followingfeatures: Power/Mode Switch—this switch has three positions for Off,NCV, and Light; Power LED (Green)—this indicator shows that the TU isoperating and has battery power; Detect LED (Amber)—this indicator showsthat the TU has detected voltage (when in NCV Mode) or a light levelchange (when in Light Mode); External Probe LED (Yellow)—this indicatorshows that the External Probe is attached; NCV Channel—building wiringcan be routed through this slot to allow detection of AC voltage; LightDetector—room lighting can be detected through this sensor; ExternalProbe Connector—the External Probe is attached here; Calibrate/ChannelSwitch—this momentary switch is used to calibrate the Light Mode and tochange the wireless channel.

The Receiver Unit is shown in FIGS. 8 a and 8 b and has the followingfeatures: Power/Mode Switch—this switch has three positions for Off,Detect, and Silent; Power LED (Green)—this indicator shows that the RUis operating and has battery power; Detect LED (Amber)—this indicatorshows that the TU has detected voltage (when in NCV Mode) or a lightlevel change (when in Light Mode), e.g., a mirror image of the TU'sDetect LED; Communication LED (Yellow)—this indicator shows that the RUis communicating with the TU; Detect Beeper—when in Detect Mode, thisbeeper will track the status of the Detect LED (e.g., cancelled at anytime by moving the Power/Mode Switch to Silent).

For example, the detector system can be directly clamped on installedbuilding wiring, and will detect the voltage applied to the wiring. Whenvoltage is seen, the TU and RU will illuminate the Detect LEDs andenable the Detect Beeper when AC voltage is detected. When the voltageis removed (e.g., by opening the circuit breaker), the Detect LEDs willgo out and the Detect Beeper will be silenced (e.g., as illustrated inFIG. 10).

In situations where access to circuit wiring is limited, the detectorsystem can also detect if room lighting changes. The Light Meter can actas either a “light sensor” (the Detect LED lights when room lightingincreases), or a “darkness sensor” (the Detect LED lights when roomlighting decreases), depending on the calibration of the Light Sensor(e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 11).

For example, on power-up, the detector system assumes the ambientlighting is the “no alarm” condition. If the detector system is poweredon in a brightly-lit room, it will assume less light is an alarmcondition; if it is powered on in a dark room, it will assume more lightis an alarm. To change this operation, or adjust for changes inbackground light levels, the Calibrate/Channel Switch may be brieflypressed (e.g., approx. 0.5 second). Upon releasing the switch, if thedetector system is in an alarm state, the Detect LEDs and Detect Beeperwill turn off. The Detect and External Probe LEDs will alternately flashat a 1 Hz rate. If “normal” room lighting needs to be adjusted, do sowhile the LEDs are flashing. If the Calibrate/Channel Switch is brieflypressed again, the light level seen by the Light Detector will nowbecome the “no alarm” condition. The RU will beep twice to confirm thecalibration. The detector system will not detect alarms for severalseconds after calibration is complete, to allow the user to adjust theposition of the devices.

An optional External Probe can be used to clamp onto tested wiring. Theprobe is shown in FIG. 9 in accordance with an embodiment. Using theExternal Probe is exactly like using the NCV Channel. When the ExternalProbe is plugged in, the External Probe LED will be lit, for example.

In accordance with an embodiment, the detector system can operate on oneof three (3) channels, to eliminate interference with other wirelessdevices, and to allow more than one detector system pair to be usedsimultaneously. Normally for example, the detector system is programmedfrom the factory to operate on Channel 2. To change to another channel,press the Calibrate/Channel Switch for at least 3 seconds (step 1).During this time, the Communication LED on the RU may go out (e.g., asan indication). After the Calibrate/Channel Switch is released, theDetect and External Probe LEDs on the TU will flash together at a 1 Hzrate (step 2). The RU will beep a number corresponding to the currentchannel of the TU. If this is the correct channel (step 3), move to step5 below. Press the Calibrate/Channel Switch briefly (−0.5 second) again(step 4). The TU and RU(s) will move to the next channel in thefollowing round-robin order: CH1→CH2→CH3→CH1, etc. The RU will beep anumber corresponding to the new channel number. Once the TU and RU(s)are on the correct channel, press the Calibrate/Channel Switch for atleast 3 seconds again (step 5). During this time, the Communication LEDon the RU may go out, and the flashing LEDs on the TU may either go out,or freeze in the lit position (e.g., as an indication). The new channelis now stored in the detector system (step 6). The RU will beep a numbercorresponding to the new channel number again to confirm the action.

This method may also be used to synchronize more than one RU to a singleTU, or to recover a RU that has “lost” its transmitter. As a specificexample, if TU is on CH3, RU #1 is on CH2, and RU #2 is on CH1, thenpress the Calibrate/Channel Switch for 3 seconds and RU #1 and #2 willboth beep three times. All devices are now on CH3 and the CommunicationLEDs are lit. Press the Calibrate/Channel Switch for 0.5 second, RU #1and #2 will both beep once. All devices are now on CH1. Press theCalibrate/Channel Switch for 0.5 second, RU #1 and #2 will both beeptwice. All devices are now on CH2. Press the Calibrate/Channel Switchfor 3 seconds, RU #1 and #2 will both beep twice. All devices are nowprogrammed to CH2.

In general for an embodiment, the wireless AC voltage detector systemmay provide either direct non-contact voltage (NCV) measurement of an ACline, using the built-in cable clamp or an external clamp probe, ordetect the light output of a lamp connected to the tested line (e.g.,using a light-detecting resistor (LDR)), in cases where the wiring isinaccessible. Additionally, various other sensors may be incorporatedusing the external probe input.

The term “circuit breaker” as used herein can refer to any circuitinterruption device, fuse, switch, valve (such as for liquids andgases), or the like, whether for an electrical circuit, a fluid pipe, orany other type of system. For example, the term “circuit breaker” canrefer to the automatic circuit interruption device commonly found inhomes and offices. As a further example, the term “circuit breaker” canrefer to a water valve in a hot water system.

The term “indicate” as used herein can refer to bringing to theattention of a user or alerting a user. For example, an indication canbe the turning of a light, the turning off of a light, the turning on ofan audible alarm or buzzer, or the turning off of the audible alarm orbuzzer.

The term “indicator” as used herein can refer to any device thatindicates, as defined above. For example, a light or an audible alarm orbuzzer can be an indicator.

The term “non-contact” as used herein can refer to detection by devicesthat do not require cutting of the insulation of a wire to determine thepresence of a voltage or current of the wire. For example, a non-contactsensor can clamp onto a wire without damaging the wire.

The term “active circuit” as used herein can refer to a circuit that iseither providing power or is capable of providing power. Thus, an activecircuit can be a circuit that has voltage present, such as at the wallreceptacles and lights thereof.

The term “associated” as used herein can refer to a relationship betweena circuit breaker or an AC line at a breaker panel and a mid-run ACline, a wall outlet, a light, or an electric device. This relationshipcan be one wherein the circuit breaker or an AC line at a breaker panelallows current or voltage to be provided to the mid-run AC line, thewall outlet, the light, or the electric device.

The term “remote” as used here can refer to being within a differentroom of the same building, being outside of a building with respect tosomething that is inside of the building, or being within a differentbuilding. The actual distance can be any distance within which wirelesscommunication between the sensor/transmitter and the receiver/indicatorcan occur.

The term “heat sensor” can be defined to include any type of sensor thatcan detect or measure heat, including thermometers, pyrometers,bolometers, infrared sensors, and infrared cameras.

According to one or more embodiments, a user can readily determine whichof a plurality of different circuit breakers is associated with aparticular circuit. Thus, such embodiments mitigate the need torepeatedly turn off circuit breakers, go to the room in which thecircuit is being monitored, and check to see if the circuit is active.The amount of time that it typically takes to determine which circuitbreaker is associated with which circuit can be substantially reduced.

Embodiments described above illustrate, but do not limit, the invention.It should also be understood that numerous modifications and variationsare possible in accordance with the principles of the present invention.Accordingly, the scope of the invention is defined only by the followingclaims.

I claim:
 1. A system, comprising: a sensor device having at least onesensor adapted to monitor at least one parameter associated with acircuit and selectively provide measurement information on the at leastone parameter; wherein the at least one sensor includes an electricalsensor adapted to monitor an electrical parameter of the circuit for thesensor device to selectively provide as the measurement information;wherein the sensor device includes a wireless transceiver within thesensor device and is adapted to transmit the measurement information andreceive control information; and a receiver indicator device having awireless transceiver and adapted to wirelessly receive the measurementinformation from the sensor device, provide the control information tothe sensor device, and provide an indication based on the measurementinformation to a user operating the receiver indicator device.
 2. Thesystem as recited in claim 1, wherein the electrical sensor is anon-contact sensor configured to removably clamp over an electrical lineto monitor as the electrical parameter a current level and/or a voltagelevel, and wherein the receiver indicator device is adapted to be incommunication with the sensor device to facilitate association of acircuit breaker operated by the user of the receiver indicator devicewith the circuit based on the measurement information received and theindication provided by the receiver indicator device.
 3. The system asrecited in claim 2, wherein the at least one sensor includes an externalprobe adapted to monitor a heat level parameter associated with thecircuit for the sensor device to selectively provide as the measurementinformation.
 4. The system as recited in claim 2, wherein the at leastone sensor includes a visible light sensor adapted to detect a visiblelight level parameter associated with the circuit for the sensor deviceto selectively provide as the measurement information, wherein thevisible light sensor has a visible light sensitivity adjustment circuitto set an alarm/no alarm threshold.
 5. The system as recited in claim 4,wherein the at least one sensor includes an external probe comprising aninfrared camera adapted to provide temperature information for thesensor device to selectively provide as the measurement information. 6.The system as recited in claim 4, wherein the at least one sensorincludes an external probe adapted to detect a sound level parameterand/or a motion parameter associated with the circuit for the sensordevice to selectively provide as the measurement information, andwherein the control information provided from the receiver indicatordevice to the sensor device controls settings and/or measurement modesof the sensor device.
 7. The system as recited in claim 4, wherein theexternal probe is wirelessly couplable to the sensor device, and whereinthe sensor device includes an external probe light to indicate when theexternal probe is wirelessly coupled to the sensor device.
 8. The systemas recited in claim 4, wherein the sensor device includes: a mode switchfor the user to select between the electrical sensor and the visiblelight sensor; a light sensitivity adjustment switch for the user tocontrol the visible light sensitivity adjustment circuit; a detect lightadapted to provide a detection indication based on the at least oneparameter being monitored; a wireless channel switch for the user toselect between a plurality of wireless channels for communicationbetween the sensor device and the receiver indicator device; and whereinthe receiver indicator device for the indication provides a light and/oran audible indicator to indicate whether the circuit is active based onthe measurement information.
 9. The system as recited in claim 1,wherein the electrical sensor comprises a non-contact voltage sensorhaving plastic prongs that are configured to attach the voltage sensorto a wall outlet.
 10. A method, comprising: positioning a sensor devicehaving at least one sensor adapted to provide measurement information onwhether a circuit is active, wherein the at least one sensor includes:an electrical sensor adapted to monitor an electrical parameter of thecircuit for the sensor device to selectively provide as the measurementinformation; and a non-contact external probe adapted to monitor atleast one parameter associated with the circuit for the sensor device toselectively provide as the measurement information; selecting whether toprovide measurement information from the electrical sensor or thenon-contact external probe; wirelessly transmitting the measurementinformation from the sensor device to a remote location; and positioninga receiver indicator device at the remote location to receive themeasurement information, wherein the receiver indicator device providesan indication to a user on whether the circuit is active based on themeasurement information.
 11. The method as recited in claim 10,comprising: transmitting control information from the receiver indicatordevice to the sensor device to control settings and/or measurement modesof the sensor device; wherein the electrical sensor is a non-contactsensor configured to removably clamp over an electrical line to monitoras the electrical parameter a current level and/or a voltage level; andwherein the receiver indicator device is adapted to be in communicationwith the sensor device to facilitate association of a circuit breakeroperated by the user of the receiver indicator device with the circuitbased on the measurement information received and the indicationprovided by the receiver indicator device to the user.
 12. The method asrecited in claim 11, wherein the external probe comprises an infraredcamera adapted to provide temperature information associated with thecircuit for the sensor device to selectively provide as the measurementinformation.
 13. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein the at leastone sensor includes a visible light sensor adapted to provide visiblelight level information associated with the circuit for the sensordevice to selectively provide as the measurement information, whereinthe non-contact external probe is adapted to detect a sound levelparameter and/or a motion parameter associated with the circuit for thesensor device to selectively provide as the measurement information, andwherein the method comprises: switching selectively each circuit breakerfrom among a plurality of circuit breakers; and determining which of thecircuit breakers is associated with the circuit based on the indicationprovided by the receiver indicator device and operation of the circuitbreaker.
 14. The method as recited in claim 13, comprising: setting alight sensitivity level if the visible light sensor is selected toprovide visible light level information; selecting a wireless channelfrom among a plurality of wireless channels for communication betweenthe sensor device and the receiver indicator device; and wherein theindication provided by the receiver indicator device to a user comprisesa visual and/or an audible signal.
 15. A sensor/transmitter device,comprising: a processor; an electrical sensor, coupled to the processor,adapted to monitor a state of an electrical parameter of a circuit andprovide an electrical parameter signal to the processor; an externalprobe, coupled to and/or adapted to couple to the sensor/transmitterdevice, adapted to monitor one or more parameters associated with thecircuit and provide an external probe signal to the processor; and awireless transmitter, coupled to the processor, adapted to transmitmeasurement information provided by the processor based on theelectrical parameter signal and/or the external probe signal.
 16. Thedevice of claim 15, comprising: a visible light sensor, coupled to theprocessor, adapted to monitor a visible light level associated with thecircuit and provide a visible light level signal to the processor,wherein the wireless transmitter is adapted to transmit measurementinformation provided by the processor based on the visible light levelsignal; a visible light sensitivity adjustment circuit, coupled to thevisible light sensor and the processor, adapted to set a visible lightsensitivity level for the visible light sensor; a mode switch adapted toallow a user to select between at least the visible light sensor and theelectrical sensor; and a detection indicator adapted to provide adetection indication based on the electrical parameter, the one or moreparameters, and/or the visible light level signal being monitored. 17.The device of claim 15, wherein the electrical sensor comprises anon-contact sensor configured to removably clamp over an electrical lineto monitor a current level and/or a voltage level; and wherein theexternal probe comprises an infrared camera adapted to monitor the oneor more parameters associated with the circuit.
 18. The device of claim15, wherein the external probe comprises a non-contact probe adapted todetect a voltage level and/or a current level.
 19. The device of claim15, wherein the external probe comprises a non-contact probe adapted tomonitor a heat level, a sound level, a water leak, a gas leak, and/or amotion level associated with the circuit.
 20. The device of claim 15,comprising a wireless receiver, coupled to the processor, adapted toreceive control information from a remote device adapted to receive themeasurement information, wherein the control information controlssettings and/or measurement modes of the sensor/transmitter device, andwherein the external probe is wirelessly coupled to thesensor/transmitter device.